Current Affairs Sept 3, 2025

Funicular Crash in Lisbon, Portugal

On September 3, 2025, a tragic accident occurred on the Ascensor da Glória, a historic funicular railway in central Lisbon. The funicular, a popular transport system and tourist attraction, derailed and crashed into a building at the bottom of the steep incline. The incident resulted in significant casualties, with 17 fatalities and over 20 people injured. Emergency services, including firefighters and paramedics, responded immediately to the scene to rescue those trapped and provide medical aid. The cause of the derailment is under investigation, with preliminary reports suggesting a possible mechanical failure. The event has prompted a comprehensive safety review of all of Lisbon’s historic funicular and tram systems to prevent future accidents. The funicular has been in operation since 1885 and is a protected national monument.

Reference: The Guardian, “Historic Lisbon Funicular Crash Kills 17, Prompts Safety Review,” September 3, 2025.

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Political Crisis in Thailand

Thailand was plunged into a new period of political uncertainty on September 3, 2025, after the Pheu Thai Party-led government moved to dissolve parliament and call for a new general election. This action came just a day after the nation’s Constitutional Court ruled to dismiss Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from office over alleged abuse of power. The dissolution of parliament is seen as a strategic move to restore stability and seek a renewed mandate from the public, but it has sparked protests in Bangkok from pro-democracy groups who have voiced concerns over a potential constitutional loophole. The date for the new election is yet to be announced, but analysts predict a period of intense political maneuvering and campaigning as various factions vie for control.

Reference: Bangkok Post, “Thai Parliament Dissolved as Political Turmoil Deepens After PM’s Dismissal,” September 3, 2025.

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India’s Tax Overhaul

In a major economic policy shift, India’s government on September 3, 2025, approved a significant Goods and Services Tax (GST) overhaul, reducing rates on hundreds of consumer goods. The move came in response to new tariffs imposed by the United States, which had threatened to escalate into a trade war. Instead of imposing retaliatory tariffs, New Delhi opted for a more consumer-centric approach, aiming to stimulate the domestic economy and alleviate inflationary pressures. The approved measure simplifies the tax structure to a two-rate system for many items, making essential goods more affordable for the general population. This strategic decision is expected to boost consumer spending and strengthen local industries, effectively using internal economic levers to counter external trade challenges.

Reference: The Economic Times, “India Approves Sweeping Tax Cut to Counter US Tariffs, Boost Consumer Spending,” September 4, 2025.

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China’s 80th Anniversary WWII Parade

China commemorated the 80th anniversary of its victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (also known as the Second Sino-Japanese War) with a massive military parade in Beijing on September 3, 2025. The parade was held in Tiananmen Square and featured an impressive display of the country’s most advanced military hardware, including hypersonic missiles, stealth drones, and next-generation tanks. The event served as a powerful reminder of China’s historical contribution to the Allied victory in World War II and a demonstration of its modern military strength. The parade was attended by foreign dignitaries and underscored China’s growing influence on the world stage, with a clear message of national pride and resolve.

Reference: South China Morning Post, “China Marks 80th Anniversary of WWII Victory with Grand Military Parade,” September 3, 2025.

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Flash Floods in Punjab, India

Intense monsoon rains on September 3, 2025, triggered devastating flash floods and landslides across the northern Indian state of Punjab. The torrential downpour caused major rivers and tributaries to overflow their banks, inundating vast areas of farmland and displacing thousands of residents. Preliminary reports from local authorities confirm at least 30 fatalities, with dozens more still missing. Rescue and relief operations are underway, with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) deployed to the worst-affected districts. The floods have also caused significant damage to infrastructure, including roads and bridges, and have severely impacted the state’s agricultural sector, raising concerns about potential food shortages and economic losses in the coming months.

Reference: The Times of India, “Flash Floods Kill 30 in Punjab as Monsoon Fury Batters Northern India,” September 4, 2025.

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